A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hong Kong vs. Tokyo for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Hong Kong or Tokyo?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong or Tokyo, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan, glamorous, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a high tech, high energy, and vibrant city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Hong Kong and Tokyo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Hong Kong or Tokyo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hong Kong. Although Hong Kong and Tokyo are both popular with visitors, Hong Kong has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hong Kong is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Tokyo is known for its museums, nightlife, and music. Hong Kong is popular for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. It is also home to Victoria Peak. Tokyo is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks.

How is Hong Kong different from Tokyo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Tokyo and Hong Kong. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hong Kong or Tokyo?

Hong Kong
Tokyo

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Tokyo are world-renowned. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Hong Kong. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.


Is the Food Better in Hong Kong or Tokyo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hong Kong
Tokyo

Dining out at restaurants in both Hong Kong and Tokyo can be an enjoyable experience.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Hong Kong is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Many restaurants in Tokyo have been singled out for their culinary prowess. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

Is Hong Kong or Tokyo Better for Nightlife?

Hong Kong
Tokyo

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Tokyo is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Hong Kong is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

Is Hong Kong or Tokyo Better for Music?

Hong Kong
Tokyo

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Hong Kong is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Tokyo. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Hong Kong is not a live music destination.


Is Hong Kong or Tokyo Better for Beaches?

Hong Kong
Tokyo

Hong Kong is great for the beach. However, Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Hong Kong is considered a top beach destination. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Is Hong Kong or Tokyo Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong
Tokyo

Hong Kong is great for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Hong Kong for the hiking trails. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or Tokyo?

Hong Kong
Tokyo

Shoppers can find a variety of fantastic stores in both Hong Kong and Tokyo.

Known for shopping, Hong Kong draws large crowds to its stores. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

Tokyo is a world class destination for shoppers. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.


Is Hong Kong or Tokyo Better for Families?

Hong Kong
Tokyo

Hong Kong and Tokyo are both fantastic destinations for the whole family.

Hong Kong is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

Tokyo is an extremely popular city to visit for families. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

Is Hong Kong or Tokyo Better for Couples?

Hong Kong
Tokyo

Hong Kong is renowned for couples. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Hong Kong makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

Tokyo is a very popular place to visit for couples. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Is Hong Kong or Tokyo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hong Kong
Tokyo

Hong Kong and Tokyo are both good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Hong Kong. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

Tokyo is a good city to visit for backpackers. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.


Is Hong Kong or Tokyo Better for Students?

Hong Kong
Tokyo

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Tokyo is a great destination for students. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Is Hong Kong or Tokyo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hong Kong
Tokyo

Visitors will find fantastic public transit in both Hong Kong and Tokyo.

Visitors in Hong Kong can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

Tokyo has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

Is Hong Kong or Tokyo a more walkable city?

Hong Kong
Tokyo

Hong Kong and Tokyo are fantastic when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hong Kong. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

Getting around Tokyo on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.


For even more information, also check out Is Hong Kong Worth Visiting? and Is Tokyo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tokyo or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or Tokyo?

Both Hong Kong and Tokyo have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Tokyo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Tokyo than Hong Kong. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Hong Kong than Tokyo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hong Kong that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than Hong Kong if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Tokyo.


  • How many days in Hong Kong or Tokyo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hong Kong 3-7 
    Tokyo 3-7

One day in Hong Kong or Tokyo?

Each neighborhood in Hong Kong has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Tokyo. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Hong Kong or Tokyo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hong Kong. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find live music and food around the cutting edge big city of Tokyo. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hong Kong or Tokyo?

Hong Kong is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Hong Kong has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant city of Tokyo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.


A week in Hong Kong or Tokyo?

Each neighborhood in Hong Kong has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Tokyo is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tokyo, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


Which place is cheaper, Tokyo or Hong Kong?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hong Kong is $159, while the average daily cost in Tokyo is $160. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hong Kong and Tokyo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hong Kong $75
    Tokyo $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hong Kong $150
    Tokyo $156
Compare Hotels in Hong Kong and Tokyo

Looking for a hotel in Hong Kong or Tokyo? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hong Kong


Hotels in Tokyo


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hong Kong Hotel Prices and Tokyo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hong Kong $8.71
    Tokyo $18
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hong Kong:


  • MTR (for 2)
    $2.81
  • Local Bus
    $2.81
  • Ferry Ticket
    $0.26
  • Hong Kong Airport Express Train Ticket
    $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tokyo

Also for Tokyo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Yokohama Private Arrival Transfer : Tokyo Hotels to Yokohama Port or Hotels: $161
  • Yokohama Port: Private Customizable Tour with Transfer: $349
  • Yokohama Port Shared Transfer : from Tokyo Hotels to Yokohama Port: $93
  • Yokohama Port Shared Transfer : from Haneda Airport to Yokohama Port: $71
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Toyko HTL-APT (NRT): $284
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Tokyo Narita Airport to City Center: $90
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Tokyo City Center to Narita Airport: $81
  • Transfer in private minivan from Tokyo City Center to Narita Airport: $110
  • Transfer in Private Minivan from Tokyo Narita Airport to City Center: $110
  • Private transfer to/from Yokohama Osanbashi Port: $168
  • Private Transfer from/to Tokyo Narita Airport: $240
  • Private Transfer from/to Tokyo Haneda Airport: $144

Is it cheaper to fly into Hong Kong or Tokyo?

Prices for flights to both Tokyo and Hong Kong change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hong Kong $33
    Tokyo $38
Typical Food Prices in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner for 2
    $11

Typical Food Prices in Tokyo

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Tokyo:


  • Late Night Noodles
    $5.33
  • Conveyor Belt Sushi Snack
    $5.33
  • Meal at Airport
    $6.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tokyo

For Tokyo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Easy Ramen cooking experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku: $27
  • 2 Hours Japanese Style Pub and Food Tour in Ueno: $34
  • Private Sushi Roll Cooking Class in Japan: $40
  • Kawaii Temari Sushi Cooking Class in Asakusa: $50
  • Kawaii Sushi Making in Tokyo (Japanese Food Cooking Class): $52
  • Japanese Traditional Cooking Class: $62
  • Wagyu and 7 Japanese Dishes Cooking Class: $62
  • Japanese Home Cooking Class near Tokyo Disneyland: $66
  • Sushi roll and side dish cooking experience: $67
  • Tsukiji Fish Market Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Small-Group Wagyu Beef and 7 Japanese Dishes Tokyo Cooking Class: $71
  • Sustainable Vegetable Temari Sushi Cooking Class in Asakusa: $72

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hong Kong $95
    Tokyo $70
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Hong Kong's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Peak Tram
    $7.66
  • Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
    $24

Tours and Activities in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ma On Shan Climbing Adventure: $115
  • Plover Cove Bicycling and Hiking Adventure: $110

Tours and Activities in Tokyo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tokyo.

  • 4 Hours Private Shibuya - Shinjuku Night Tour: $137
  • Authentic Samurai Experience With Real Actors: $103
  • Feel the History Walking Tour Starting from Imperial Palace: $52
  • Mt. Fuji Majestic Tours : Shinjuku to Arakurayama and Beyond: $80
  • TeamLab Planets TOKYO DMM - Admission Ticket: $49
  • The best of Tokyo Walking tour: $250
  • Tokyo Full Day Private Tour With Guide and Foods Included: $275
  • Walking Tour to Temple and Izakaya from the River: $121
  • “Your name.” Going on an electric bicycle <Roppongi, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku> A 6-hour tour of a sacred place. (With support car): $141
  • "Nippori Fabric Town" Walking Tour: $41
  • 1 Day Mount Nokogiri Hiking Tour from Tokyo: $261
  • 1 Day Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour with Guide: $489

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hong Kong $21
    Tokyo $33

Typical Alcohol Prices in Tokyo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Tokyo:


  • Sake
    $4.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Tokyo

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tokyo:

  • Tokyo Pub Crawl: $25
  • Low-cost local pub & bar crawling: $31
  • 3-Hour Tokyo Pub Crawl Weekly Welcome Guided Tour in Shibuya: $52
  • Asakusa : Sensoji Temple and Sake Brewery Tour: $67
  • Private Shinjuku Nightlife Walking Tour & Golden-Gai Bar Crawl: $83
  • barhopping tour&bar crawl in Retro Town Shimokitazawa: $87
  • Toshimaya Sake Brewery Tour with Sake Tasting: $94
  • 【Tokyo】Yokocho walking and Japanese pub crawl tour: $100
  • Private Sake Tasting at 300 Years Old Sake Brewery in Tokyo : $110
  • Sake Brewery and Spiritual Nature Tour in Okutama Tokyo: $141
  • Private Local Craft Brewery Tour in Tokyo: $150
  • Premium Sake Tasting & Pairing Experience in a Historical Brewery: $172


When comparing the travel costs between Hong Kong and Tokyo, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hong Kong Expensive? and Is Tokyo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or Tokyo?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 19% larger than the population of Hong Kong. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong and Tokyo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.